Biology, conservation and status of the Amazonian Manatee Trichechus inunguis

The Amazonian Manatee Trichechus inunguis (Natterer, 1883) is the only exclusively freshwater sirenian and the smallest of the living species. Its inability to reduce peripheral heat loss limits its distribution to tropical waters. The species is endemic to the Amazonian region, being distributed throughout the Amazon basin, occurring mainly in calm waters and lakes. The species has been commercially exploited since 1542, with the meat and hide being the main products extracted. This commercial exploitation, combined with their very low reproductive rate, has seriously reduced the manatee population. Therefore the Amazonian Manatee is now considered an endangered species. Although it is protected by most of the countries where it occurs, there is no law enforcement, and the species is still captured throughout the Amazon. Data on general biology, physiology and management of the Amazonian Manatee, as well as its status and recommendations for its conservation, are presented.